Average Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary in Columbia, SC
Fast Food and Counter Workers in Columbia, SC, earn an average annual salary of $26,430. This figure is notably below the national average of $31,240, suggesting that local market dynamics, such as labor supply and demand, play a significant role in compensation within the state capital. Factors specific to Columbia's economy likely influence this pay scale.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $26,430 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 36.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $35,100.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 11,590 individuals in this sector, Columbia, SC, demonstrates a substantial presence of Fast Food and Counter Workers. The Location Quotient of 1.22 indicates a concentration of these jobs that is 22% higher than the national average, signaling a robust demand and a potentially stable job market for these roles within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Fast Food and Counter Workers in Columbia, SC earns-15.4%below the national average.
$12.7
$508
$2,203
Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Columbia, SC, have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Economic shifts and inflation typically drive modest increases in hourly wages and annual compensation for roles in the food service industry.
Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary Distribution in Columbia, SC
Career progression for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Columbia, SC, typically involves a salary increase with accumulated experience. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of the pay scale, while senior roles or supervisory positions can command higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings signify the potential for advancement and increased earning capacity as workers gain skills and tenure.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commis ChefPrep work, learning stations, basic knife skills. | 10% (Entry) | $21,480 | $10.3 |
| Chef de PartieStation chef (Grill, Sauté). Runs a section. | 25% (Junior) | $19,823 | $9.5 |
| Sous ChefSecond in command. Managing staff & inventory. | 50% (Median) | $26,310 | $12.6 |
| Executive ChefMenu creation, costing, kitchen management. | 75% (Senior) | $33,038 | $15.9 |
| Chef OwnerRestaurateur. Multi-venue operations. | 90% (Expert) | $35,100 | $16.9 |
Detailed Fast Food and Counter Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$26,430
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$26,430
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $26,430 for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Columbia, SC, aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that while the salary is lower than the national average, the cost of essential goods and services in Columbia is also at the national benchmark, suggesting that purchasing power may be relatively stable compared to other regions.
Job Market Context
11,590
Total Jobs
30.03
Per 1K Jobs
1.22
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.22, Columbia, SC has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Fast Food and Counter Workers roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.22 for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Columbia, SC, signifies that this profession is more concentrated in the area than the national average. This suggests a healthy demand for these workers relative to the general labor market, potentially leading to more job opportunities and a competitive environment for employers seeking to fill these positions.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Fast Food and Counter Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary | $24,520↓ 7% | 13 mi |
| Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary | $23,890↓ 10% | 13 mi |
| Southern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary | $24,110↓ 9% | 13 mi |
| Sumter, SC Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary | $24,480↓ 7% | 30 mi |
| Florence, SC Fast Food and Counter Workers Salary | $25,760↓ 3% | 64 mi |
Comparing salaries near Columbia, SC
Hiring Fast Food and Counter Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Fast Food and Counter Workers make in Columbia, SC?
The median annual salary for a Fast Food and Counter Workers in Columbia, SC is $26,430. This typically ranges from $21,480 for entry-level positions to $35,100 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Columbia, SC is 15.4% lower than the national median of $31,240.
Is Columbia, SC a lucrative place for Fast Food and Counter Workers?
No, not particularly lucrative compared to the national average.While the Cost of Living is at the national average, the average salary of $26,430 is significantly lower than the national average of $31,240, indicating less earning potential in this specific role.
Is Columbia, SC a good place to live for Fast Food and Counter Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in Columbia, SC is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Columbia, SC?
Some top paying nearby cities include Northwestern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area ($24,520) and Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area.
How does the number of jobs per 1,000 workers compare nationally?
With 30.03 jobs per 1,000 workers, Columbia, SC, has a slightly higher concentration of Fast Food and Counter Worker positions compared to the national average, indicating a more prevalent job market for this role.
What is the significance of the Location Quotient (LQ) of 1.22?
An LQ of 1.22 means that Fast Food and Counter Workers are 22% more concentrated in Columbia, SC, than they are across the United States. This suggests a stronger presence and potentially higher demand for these roles in the local economy.
Does experience impact salary for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Columbia, SC?
Yes, experience typically leads to higher salaries. While entry-level positions offer lower pay, senior roles and those with specialized skills or supervisory responsibilities generally command a greater income, reflecting career progression.
How does the salary compare to the cost of living in Columbia, SC?
The average salary of $26,430 is offset by a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that while the nominal pay is lower than the national average, the cost of living is also at par, making the purchasing power relatively consistent with national standards.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 11,590 employees in the Columbia, SC area with a job density of 30.03 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Fast Food and Counter Workers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Columbia, SC